The Greater Area Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual awards dinner on Tuesday at Ohio University Southern.

During the dinner several local businesses and business people will be recognized. Awards and recipients are 2013 Business Person of the Year: Jim Earl Jr.; 2013 Business of the Year: Orica; 2013 Young Professional of the Year: Jessica Cornette; and 2013 Entrepreneur of the Year: Ron Lyons.

The 2013 George Patterson Community Servant and 2013 Small Business Advocate Awards will be announced at the event.

“It’s just a great chance to honor and show our appreciation to the people and businesses that mean so much to Lawrence County,” said Dr. Bill Dingus, executive director of Lawrence County Economic Development Corporation. “It’s our time to recognize everyone who makes positive contributions to our county.”

Dingus says it is important to let people know the work they do is appreciated and that every business has positive affects on everyone in Lawrence County.

“New businesses and companies have been coming into the county like Orica,” Dingus said. “That plays such a big role in our local economy and helps the existing stores, restaurants and businesses grow.”

A silent auction will also be held during the event. The proceeds of the auction will go to the Secret Santa Program, which provides needy children throughout Lawrence County with clothes and toys at Christmas.

The reception will start at 6 p.m. with dinner beginning at 7 p.m. Music will be provided by the Ironton High School Varsity Singers and seats for the dinner are still available. For more information or to reserve a seat call 740-377-4550.